BAFTA chairman John Willis described Parker as "a hugely distinctive filmmaker, and a man of uncompromising vision and personality."

Willis also noted that the 19 BAFTA awards Parker's films have won over his 40-year career "indicate the esteem in which he is held by his peers, as well as the outstanding nature of his work."

Parker added: "When you make your first film, you’re sure it will be your last. And then you squeeze your eyes together and suddenly, 40 years later, you’re at BAFTA getting an award like this. I’m of course enormously flattered and honored."

Knighted in 2002 for services to the British film industry and twice nominated for best director at the Oscars (for Midnight Express and Mississippi Burning), Parker has a resume that boasts a BAFTA best screenplay award for Bugsy Malone in 1975 and a best director BAFTA nod for Midnight Express.